DIACOMET conference in Estonia highlights the need for better dialogue in an age of noise

The conference “Less Noise, More Dialogue! Agreements for Good Communication”, organised by our partners from the University of Tartu and Praxis at the end of February 2026, brought together experts from diverse fields and members of the wider public to reflect on how dialogue shapes everyday life.

The event focused on reducing “noise” and fostering more genuine dialogue in public communication. Speakers and participants emphasized that people want to feel heard, and that ethical communication is not only a matter of freedom of speech, but also of listening, understanding, and taking responsibility for the way we communicate. Through presentations, simulations, and discussions, the conference demonstrated that meaningful dialogue requires conscious effort, empathy, and practical skills, rather than simply an exchange of opinions.

The discussions also explored the roles of journalists, public institutions, civil society, and citizens in improving communication, while underscoring that ethics cannot remain merely abstract rules on paper. Instead, better communication depends on everyday practice, media literacy, and a willingness to engage respectfully with others, even in moments of disagreement.

We invite you to find out more about the conference on this link.

(Photos: Oliver Valk)